Fillable Form DD 2977

What is Form DD-2977?

Form DD-2977, the Deliberate Risk Assessment Worksheet, is a tool used by the U.S. Department of Defense to document, manage, and mitigate identified risks associated with various military operations and activities. This form is designed to aid commanders, safety officers, and other military personnel to identify potential hazards, assess risks for each stage of the operation, and determine the appropriate control measures to mitigate them. It ensures that decision-making is structured, documented, and focused on safety, allowing for systematic planning and the application of risk management techniques in both training and operational environments.

The completed form requires users to list specific tasks or actions involved in a mission or set of operational tasks, outline the potential risks and hazards associated with each, and rate the severity and probability of these hazards using a risk matrix. This process helps personnel determine the overall level of risk (low, medium, high, or extremely high) for each task, which can then inform decisions about how to proceed or modify plans. Once risks are identified, the form also provides space to detail control measures that can reduce risks, along with residual risk levels, and assigns responsibilities for implementing these controls.

How do I fill out Form DD-2977?

A fillable template for DD Form 2977 can be accessed here.

Mission/Task Description and Execution Date

Enter a description of the task that this form is being filed for, and the date that said task will be executed.

Date Prepared

Enter the date that this form was prepared.

Prepared By

Enter the following information about the person that prepared this form.

• Name
• Rank/Grade
• Duty Title/Position
• Unit
• Work Email
• Telephone
• UIC/CIN
• Training Support/Lesson Plan or OPORD
• Signature of Preparer

Subtask/Substep of Mission or Task

Describe each subtask or substep of the mission or task that warrants risk assessment through this form.

Hazard

Specify the hazards that may be encountered for each respective subtask or substep of the mission or task.

Initial Risk Level

Determine the initial risk level based on each hazard declared/assessed using the risk assessment matrix provided with this form.

Control

Enter the risk mitigation measures that have been or will be taken in order to reduce or control the risks assessed.

How to/Who Will Implement

Enter the means through which the risk mitigation measures were or will be implemented and who implemented them.

Residual Risk Level

Determine the remaining risk level, once again using the risk assessment matrix, after applying the risk mitigation measures declared on this form.

Overall Risk After Controls

Assign an overall risk level, which should be greater than or equal to the residual risk level.

Overall Supervision Plan and Recommended Course of Action

Have the preparer enter the details of their supervision plan and their recommended course of action moving forward.

Approval/Disapproval of Mission/Task

Have the approval authority mark the relevant box to approve or disapprove of the task or mission based on the risk assessment, then enter the following information about them:

• Name
• Rank/Grade
• Duty Title/Position
• Signature of Approval Authority

Additional Guidance

Enter any additional guidance that may be necessary here.

Risk Assessment Review

If this assessment applies to currently ongoing operations or activities, enter the following details for each reviewer:

• Date of Review
• Last Name
• Rank/Grade
• Duty Title/Position
• Signature of Reviewer

Feedback and Lessons Learned

Enter all feedback and lessons learned through this mission/task or risk assessment.

Additional Comments or Remarks

Enter any additional comments or remarks relevant to this form.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is risk severity important on Form DD-2977?

It helps prioritize control measures by assessing the possible impact of hazards on mission success and safety.

What is a risk matrix in Form DD-2977?

A grid used to evaluate the severity and probability of each risk, helping determine the overall risk level.

How does Form DD-2977 support decision-making?

It provides structured hazard analysis, allowing leaders to make informed choices on safety and mission adjustments.

What are control measures in Form DD-2977?

Actions or protocols implemented to reduce the likelihood or impact of identified risks.

How is “residual risk” calculated on Form DD-2977?

It’s the level of risk remaining after control measures are applied to a hazard.

Why is the risk assessment a “deliberate” process?

Because it’s methodical and systematic, focusing on thorough hazard analysis rather than quick assessments.

What is a hazard in the context of Form DD-2977?

A potential source of harm or danger related to specific mission tasks.

How often should Form DD-2977 be updated?

Before each new mission or training exercise, or when conditions or tasks significantly change.

What happens if a high residual risk is identified?

It may require additional control measures, higher authorization, or even mission postponement.

Can Form DD-2977 be used in training scenarios?

Yes, it’s commonly used in both training and operational settings to enhance safety and readiness.

Who approves the final risk assessment?

The approving authority varies but is usually a senior leader or commander with decision-making power.

Is Form DD-2977 mandatory for all military activities?

It’s typically required for activities with significant risk, but requirements may vary by branch and command.

What is the “overall risk level” in Form DD-2977?

It’s the cumulative level of risk for the entire mission after assessing all individual task hazards.

Why is documenting risks important on Form DD-2977?

It ensures transparency, accountability, and continuity in safety practices across missions.

How does Form DD-2977 enhance mission success?

By proactively identifying and mitigating risks, it helps maintain safety and effectiveness in operations.